Campeche, a city rich in history, was declared a World Heritage Site by the UNESCO due to its beautiful historic buildings and fortifications. As you walk along the streets you’ll see various civic, religious and military constructions that were built between the 16th and 19th centuries. You can also appreciate large mansions with high ceilings, iron balconies and majestic arches.

The Bulwarks of Campeche – Among the splendid architecture that characterizes Campeche are the old fortifications that were built to wall in the city and protect it from pirate attacks. Some of these structures have been restored, however there are others that have their original constructions intact. The most notable sights are La Puerta de Mar (the Sea Gate), a main entrance which has a large semicircular arch; the Soledad Bulwark, which still has parts of the original wall intact and features a rampart, parapets and garrets on the top floor; the Santiago Bulwark, which has maintained its original main door, however the rest of the structure has undergone restoration. Also of interest is the San Francisco Bulwark, which has an access ramp to a rooftop that offers an excellent view of the city; the San Pedro Bulwark, one of six fortifications with a quadrangular layout and garrets on the corners. On the other side, you’ll see the Puerta de Tierra (the Land Gate), a main door with most of its original construction intact. There you can appreciate an old wall with portholes; inside you’ll see a bronze cannon that was made in France in the 18th century. Nearby, stands the San Juan Bulwark, a small fortification that forms part of the remains of the big wall. There’s also the Santa Rosa Bulwark, which has a pentagonal design and three garrets on the top floor. In addition, you can check out the pentagonal-formed San Carlos Bulwark, named after King Carlos II of Spain.

Finally, don’t forget to visit the San Miguel Fort, one of the most impressive fortifications due to its large dimensions; and the San Jose El Alto Fort, a quadrangular construction with three garrets and a patio with the remains of an old well curb.

The Haciendas of Campeche – Campeche’s beautiful haciendas are telling examples of the region’s history, architecture and rural lifestyle. At these enormous constructions, they once produced all kinds of raw materials, including grains, seeds, henequen and sugar cane. Today, you can visit many of these impressive haciendas, such as Hacienda Puerta Campeche, located near historic monument Puerta de Tierra. This hacienda, which has been converted into one of the region’s most original hotels, comprises a group of 17th-century houses. The Hacienda de Uayamon, located in the town of Uayamon, initially was a farm, then it became more diversified as a sugar cane, henequen and corn producer; it was one of Campeche’s most important haciendas. Today, it is a top-notch hotel, which still has the original main building and an old hospital. Hacienda San Jose Carpizo, located in the town of San Jose Carpizo, 60 km (37 mi) southeast of the capital, was a farm and it also produced henequen. It is an excellent example of 19th-century-neoclassical architecture; the blue mosaics on the façade stand in contrast to the series of frets and volutes. The hacienda still boasts the main building, the original chapel and the old machine, carpentry and ironworks shops. Finally, there’s the Hacienda Blanca Flor, located in Hecelchakan, 63 km (39 mi) north of Campeche, off Highway 180. This is one of the oldest haciendas. All that remains of the original design is the main building and the grand chapel. Today, it operates as a hotel.

Templo de San Roman – Located on the corner of Calle 10 and Calle Bravo. This magnificent edifice houses a sculpture of a black Christ that was brought over by an Italian merchant in 1565. The figure is fastened to a silver-ornamented cross in the presbytery. Many people go before the cross to ask for miracles.

Catedral de Campeche – Located on Calle 55, next to the main plaza, in the Historic Center. At this cathedral you’ll see the Jesus Nazareno y La Española chapel and a clock tower facing the sea. You’ll also see a tower called La Campechana, which stands next to the Puerta de Tierra. This tower now has a clock with four bright dials, which still works today.

 

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